Nairobi to host Africa’s largest avocado congress in May

KENYA – The International Africa Avocado Congress is returning to Nairobi from 27 to 30 May, bringing together producers, exporters, and sector experts from across Africa and beyond.

The event will be held at the Sarit Expo Centre and is expected to draw more than 2,000 participants.

Organized by the Avocado Society of Kenya (ASOK), the congress enters its fifth edition at a time when the region is seeing steady growth in production and exports.

The event will focus on how African avocado producers can become more competitive and improve trade ties globally.

“Kenya continues to solidify its position as Africa’s leading avocado exporter,” said Ernest Muthomi, CEO of ASOK.

According to the USDA, Kenya’s avocado exports are projected to grow by 6.3 percent in 2025, reaching 135,000 tonnes. Revenue is expected to rise by 11 percent to US$175 million.

Experts say this growth comes from improved weather conditions, increased planting areas, and rising demand, especially from Europe and the Middle East.

Focus on trade, safety, and innovation

The congress will include panels and workshops on various areas, including production techniques, postharvest handling, phytosanitary standards, marketing, and nutrition.

Organizers say that combining science, business, and innovation will help producers improve both quality and sales.

“Avocado Africa 2025 serves as a pivotal platform for stakeholders across the avocado industry to converge, share knowledge and explore new business opportunities,” said Muthomi.

“With its strategic location in Nairobi, Kenya, the congress underscores the country’s central role in the global avocado market and its commitment to advancing the sector through innovation and collaboration.”

Participants will also address market access challenges, especially those related to meeting strict international standards on safety and sustainability.

ASOK’s role in the sector

ASOK represents Kenyan avocado farmers, exporters, and other players along the value chain. The group supports sustainable avocado farming and helps members connect with both local and global buyers.

In addition to hosting the congress, ASOK runs the Kenya Avocado Excellence Awards, which recognize strong performance and innovation in the industry.

Reports show that Africa’s avocado market could reach $2.1 billion by 2035, growing at a slow but steady pace of 0.5 percent per year. Kenya plays a leading role, accounting for 32 percent of all avocado consumption in Africa. The country produced 361,000 tonnes last year and earned $159 million from exports.

Registration for the congress is open at avocadoafrica.com. Attendees include agronomists, exporters, technology providers, government officials, and buyers from across Africa, Europe, and the Gulf.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.